15-Minute Japanese Ramen Carbonara (Print)

Fusion pasta meets ramen in a creamy, umami-rich bowl ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy nights.

# Components:

→ Noodles

01 - 2 packs instant ramen noodles, seasoning packets discarded

→ Protein

02 - 4 strips bacon or pancetta, chopped
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 large egg yolk

→ Sauce & Seasonings

05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
07 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
08 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnishes

09 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
10 - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
11 - Nori strips (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking water before draining. Drain noodles and set aside.
02 - While the noodles cook, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon or pancetta and sauté until crispy, about 4 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.
03 - In a mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the egg, egg yolk, grated Parmesan, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and black pepper until well combined.
04 - Transfer hot drained noodles to the skillet with crisp bacon. Pour the egg mixture over the noodles, tossing rapidly with tongs or chopsticks to coat evenly. Gradually add reserved cooking water as needed to achieve a smooth, silky sauce.
05 - Divide the ramen evenly between two bowls. Garnish with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and nori strips if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses only basic kitchen equipment and pantry staples
  • Ready in just 15 minutes from prep to table
  • Perfect blend of creamy savory Italian and punchy Japanese flavors in one bowl
  • Easy to customize using what you have in the fridge
02 -
  • High in protein and full of flavor
  • Flexible enough for endless riffs
  • Extremely quick cleanup thanks to minimal pots and pans
03 -
  • Toss the noodles fast once the sauce goes in to avoid scramble
  • Use only as much reserved noodle water as you need for a glossy finish
  • Taste and adjust black pepper at the end for a little spicy lift

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